Geneva/Brussels, (Unib Rashid) – More than 20,000 children have been killed and over 44,000 others injured in the occupied Palestinian territory since the outbreak of the conflict on October 7, 2023, according to the chair of the United Nations Commission of Inquiry.

Speaking to reporters in Geneva, Srinivasan Muralidhar, Chair of the UN Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel, said the commission’s findings indicate that Israeli military operations have resulted in a devastating toll on children.

Muralidhar stated that the commission has documented the deaths of more than 20,000 children and injuries to over 44,000 others since the conflict began. He described the humanitarian impact on children as catastrophic and reiterated the need for accountability under international law.

Israeli forces have killed over 20,000 children & injured 44,000 more since 7 Oct. 2023, Srinivasan Muralidhar, chair of the @UN Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory & Israel, told reporters today. #HRC62

More on their new report ➡️ https://t.co/gK2KhtlgFb pic.twitter.com/ZQGUQkJKxD

— UN Human Rights Council Investigative Bodies (@uninvhrc) June 23, 2026

The UN Commission of Inquiry continues to investigate alleged violations of international humanitarian and human rights law by all parties involved in the conflict. The commission has repeatedly called for the protection of civilians, particularly children, and for unhindered humanitarian access to affected areas.

The conflict, which escalated following the October 7, 2023 attacks, has triggered a prolonged humanitarian crisis, with the United Nations and aid organizations warning of severe shortages of food, medical supplies, and essential services across Gaza.

The Israeli government has consistently maintained that its military operations are directed against Hamas and other armed groups, while stating that civilian casualties are an unintended consequence of fighting in densely populated areas. Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups have also faced international scrutiny over alleged violations of international law.

The UN Commission’s findings add to growing international concern over the humanitarian consequences of the conflict and renewed calls for measures to protect civilians and pursue a sustainable ceasefire.